Liquid phase process for preparing (E)-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobut-2-ene

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein are methods of producing E-CF 3 CH═CHCF 3  in a liquid phase. Also disclosed are methods of preparing CF 3 CH 2 CHClCF 3  and CF 3 CHClCH 2 CCl 3 .

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser.No. 62/556,744, filed Sep. 11, 2017, the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The disclosure herein relates to a liquid phase process for preparing(E)-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobut-2-ene (E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃) from CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃.The disclosure herein further provides methods of preparingCF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ and CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Various types of polyurethane foams require blowing (expansion) agentsfor their manufacture. Historically, polyurethane foams used CFCs(chlorofluorocarbons) and HCFCs (hydrochlorofluorocarbons) as theprimary blowing agents. CFCs have fallen into disfavor due to theimplication of chlorine-containing molecules in the destruction ofstratospheric ozone. Further, the production and use of CFCs has beenrestricted by the Montreal Protocol. HCFCs have been proposed as CFCsubstitutes, and are currently employed as foam blowing agents. However,HCFCs have also been shown to contribute to the depletion ofstratospheric ozone, and as a result their use has come under scrutiny.The widespread use of HCFCs is scheduled for eventual phase out underthe Montreal Protocol.

Hydrofluoroolefins (HFOs) represent a class of compounds being used asblowing agents in polyurethane and related foams that have a low globalwarming potential. Processes for the manufacture of HFOs have beenpreviously described (e.g., U.S. Pat. Publ. No. 2007/152200 describesfire extinguishing and fire suppression compositions comprisingunsaturated fluorocarbons and methods of preparing the HFOs). U.S. Pat.No. 8,461,401 describes a method for making haxafluoro-2-butene(HFO-1336). However, this method suffers from yield loss when performedin the liquid phase. To minimize yield loss in the first step of theprocess, a vapor phase process is employed. The overall process involvesone liquid phase step and two gas phase steps. The cost for employinggas phase reactors can be high.

Thus, there is a need for a process for preparing HFOs, particularlyHFO-1336, that reduces costs yet results in improved yields. There isalso a need for a process for preparing HFOs that can be done in onephase, for example, the liquid phase.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in thisspecification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent asif each individual publication, patent, or patent application wasspecifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.In case of conflict, the present application, including any definitionsherein, will control.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Provided herein is a liquid phase process for preparing(E)-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobut-2-ene (E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃; E-1336mzz). Theprocess provided herein comprises treating CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf) withan effective amount of a base to form a mixture comprising theE-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, wherein the process is a liquid phase process. In someembodiments, the mixture comprises E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ and one or more ofhexafluoroisobutylene (1336mt), 1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (356mff),(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (1335lzz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃.

In some embodiments, the base is selected from the group consisting oflithium hydroxide, lithium oxide, sodium hydroxide, sodium oxide,potassium hydroxide, potassium oxide, rubidium hydroxide, rubidiumoxide, cesium hydroxide, cesium oxide, calcium hydroxide, calcium oxide,strontium hydroxide, strontium oxide, barium hydroxide, and bariumoxide. In some embodiments, the base is potassium hydroxide. In someembodiments, the base is sodium hydroxide. In some embodiments, the baseis in an aqueous solution. In some embodiments, the concentration ofbase in the aqueous solution is from about 4M to about 12 M.

In some embodiments, the process is performed in the presence of a phasetransfer catalyst. In some embodiments, the phase transfer catalyst isselected from the group consisting of a quaternary ammonium salt, aheterocyclic ammonium salt, an organic phosphonium salt, and a nonioniccompound. In some embodiments, the phase transfer catalyst is selectedfrom the group consisting of benzyltrimethylammonium chloride,benzyltriethylammonium chloride, methyltricaprylammonium chloride,methyltributylammonium chloride, methyltrioctylammonium chloride,dimethyldiphenylphosphonium iodide, methyltriphenoxyphosphonium iodide,tetrabutylphosphonium bromide, tetrabutylphosphonium chloride,hexadecyltributylphosphonium bromide, and DL-α-tocopherolmethoxypolyethylene glycol succinate. In some embodiments, the phasetransfer catalyst is methyltrioctylammonium chloride.

In some embodiments of the process provided herein, the base is sodiumhydroxide and the phase transfer catalyst is methyltrioctylammoniumchloride.

In some embodiments of the process provided herein, the mixture furthercomprises one or more of hexafluoroisobutylene (1336mt),1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (356mff),(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (1335lzz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃. In some embodiments, the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ is produced in ayield of about 95% or greater. In some embodiments, the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ isproduced with a selectivity of about 99 mol % or greater with respect toother components of the mixture.

In some embodiments of the process provided herein, the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ issubstantially isolated from the mixture.

In some embodiments, the process comprises preparing CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃(346mdf). In some embodiments, CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ is prepared according to asecond process comprising contacting CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) with HF inthe presence of a catalyst, wherein the second process is a liquid phaseprocess.

In some embodiments, the catalyst is a metal halide. In someembodiments, the metal halide is selected from the group consisting ofSbF₅, SbCl₅, SbCl₃, SnCl₄, TaCl₅, TiCl₄, NbCl₅, MoCl₆, WCl₆, antimony(V) chlorofluorides, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, themetal halide is SbF₅. In some embodiments, the metal halide is TaCl₅. Insome embodiments, the metal halide is antimony (V) chlorofluorides.

In some embodiments, the second process is performed at a temperature offrom about 50° C. to about 100° C.

In some embodiments, the CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ is produced in a yield of about93% or greater. In some embodiments, the CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ is produced in ayield of about 95% or greater.

In some embodiments, the process comprises preparing CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃(343jfd). In some embodiments, CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ is prepared according to athird process comprising contacting carbon tetrachloride with3,3,3-trifluoropropene in the presence of an organophosphorus compoundand a catalyst comprising a metal, wherein the third process is a liquidphase process.

In some embodiments, the organophosphorus compound is selected from thegroup consisting of a phosphate ester, a phosphate amide, a phosphonicacid, a phosphonic ester, a phosphinic acid, a phosphinic ester, aphosphine oxide, a phosphine imide, a phosphonium salt, a phosphorene, aphosphite, a phosphonate, a phosphinite, and a phosphine. In someembodiments, the organophosphorus compound is selected from the groupconsisting of a phosphate, a diphosphate, a triphosphate, and atrialkylphosphate. In some embodiments, the organophosphorus compound istributylphosphate.

In some embodiments, the metal of the catalyst is selected from thegroup consisting of Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Mo, Cr, and Mn. In some embodiments,the metal is Fe.

In some embodiments, the third process takes place at a temperature offrom about 100° C. to about 120° C.

Provided herein is a process for preparing E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, comprising:(a) contacting carbon tetrachloride with 3,3,3-trifluoropropene in thepresence of an organophosphorus compound and a catalyst comprising ametal to produce CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃; (b) contacting the CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ withHF in the presence of a catalyst to produce CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃; and (c)treating the CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ with an effective amount of a base to form amixture comprising the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, wherein the process is a liquidphase process. In some embodiments, step (c) is performed in thepresence of a phase transfer catalyst. In some embodiments, the mixturefurther comprises one or more of hexafluoroisobutylene (1336mt),1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (356mff),(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (1335lzz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃. In some embodiments, the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ is substantiallyisolated from the mixture.

Provided herein is a process for preparing E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, comprising:(a) contacting carbon tetrachloride with 3,3,3-trifluoropropene in thepresence of an organophosphorus compound and a catalyst comprising ametal to produce CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃; (b) contacting the CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ withHF in the presence of a catalyst to produce CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃; and (c)treating the CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ with an effective amount of a base in thepresence of a phase transfer catalyst to form a mixture comprising theE-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, wherein the process is a liquid phase process. In someembodiments, the base of step (c) is sodium hydroxide. In someembodiments, the mixture further comprises one or more ofhexafluoroisobutylene (1336mt), 1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (356mff),(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (1335lzz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃. In some embodiments, the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ is substantiallyisolated from the mixture.

Also provided herein is a composition comprising: (a) E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, and(b) one or more additional compounds selected from the group consistingof hexafluoroisobutylene (1336mt), 1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane(356mff), (E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (1335lzz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃, wherein the composition comprises greater than about 99mol % E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃.

Also provided herein is a composition prepared according to the processdescribed herein, comprising: (a) E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, and (b) one or moreadditional compounds selected from the group consisting ofhexafluoroisobutylene (1336mt), 1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (356mff),(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (1335lzz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃, wherein the composition comprises greater than about 99mol % E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃.

Other objects and advantages will become apparent to those skilled inthe art upon reference to the detailed description that hereinafterfollows.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The hydrofluoroolefin (E)-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobut-2-ene(E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃; E-1336mzz) is a blowing agent with low global warmingpotential. Provided herein is a process for preparing E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃(E-1336mzz). The process is a liquid phase process comprising the stepsof:

-   -   (a) contacting carbon tetrachloride with 3,3,3-trifluoropropene        in the presence of an organophosphorus compound and a catalyst        comprising a metal to produce CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd);    -   (b) contacting the CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) with HF in the        presence of a catalyst to produce CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf); and    -   (c) treating the CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf) with an effective amount        of a base to form a mixture comprising the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃        (E-1336mzz).

In some embodiments, step (c) is performed in the presence of a phasetransfer catalyst.

In some embodiments, the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) is substantiallyisolated from the mixture.

Step (a)—Production of CF₃CHCl CH₂CCl₃ (343jfd)

In step (a), carbon tetrachloride is reacted with 3,3,3-trifluoropropenein the presence of an organophosphorus compound and a catalystcomprising a metal to produce 2,4,4,4-tetrachloro-1,1,1-trifluorobutane(CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃; 343jfd). Reacting carbon tetrachloride with3,3,3-trifluoropropene is carried out in a liquid phase.

In some embodiments, the organophosphorus compound of step (a) is aphosphate ester, a phosphate amide, a phosphonic acid, a phosphonicester, a phosphinic acid, a phosphinic ester, a phosphine oxide, aphosphine imide, a phosphonium salt, a phosphorene, a phosphite, aphosphonate, a phosphinite, or a phosphine. In some embodiments, theorganophosphorus compound is a phosphate, a diphosphate, a triphosphate,or a trialkylphosphate. In some embodiments, the organophosphoruscompound is tributylphosphate.

In some embodiments, the organophosphorus compound of step (a) comprisesbetween about 0.1% and about 5% by weight of the reaction mixturecomposition of step (a). For example, about 0.5% to about 2.5%, or about1% to about 1.5% by weight of the reaction mixture composition of step(a).

In some embodiments, the metal of the catalyst of step (a) is iron (Fe),cobalt (Co), nickel (Ni), copper (Cu), molybdenum (Mo), chromium (Cr),or manganese (Mn). In some embodiments, the metal is iron. In someembodiments, the catalyst comprising a metal is iron powder.

In some embodiments, the catalyst comprising a metal of step (a)comprises between about 0.01% and about 1% by weight of the reactionmixture composition of step (a). For example, about 0.1% to about 0.7%,or about 0.3% to about 0.6% by weight of the composition. In someembodiments, the catalyst comprising a metal comprises about 0.5% byweight of the reaction mixture composition of step (a).

In some embodiments, the carbon tetrachloride can be present in thereaction mixture composition of step (a) in an amount of about 50% toabout 90% by weight of the composition. For example, about 55% to about85%, about 60% to about 80%, about 65% to about 75%, or about 68% toabout 72% by weight of the reaction mixture composition of step (a).

In some embodiments, the 3,3,3-trifluoropropene can be present in thereaction mixture composition of step (a) in an amount of about 10% toabout 50% by weight of the composition. For example, about 15% to about45%, about 20% to about 40%, about 25% to about 35%, or about 28% toabout 32% by weight of the reaction mixture composition of step (a).

In some embodiments, reacting carbon tetrachloride in a liquid phasewith 3,3,3-trifluoropropene in the presence of an organophosphoruscompound and a catalyst comprising a metal to produce CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃(343jfd) is performed at a temperature of about 90° C. to about 130° C.,about 100° C. to about 120° C., or about 105° C. to about 115° C. Insome embodiments, reacting carbon tetrachloride in a liquid phase with3,3,3-trifluoropropene in the presence of an organophosphorus compoundand a catalyst comprising a metal to produce CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) isperformed at a temperature of about 90° C., 95° C., 100° C., 105° C.,110° C., 115° C., 120° C., 125° C., or about 130° C.

In some embodiments, reacting carbon tetrachloride in a liquid phasewith 3,3,3-trifluoropropene in the presence of an organophosphoruscompound and a catalyst comprising a metal to produce CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃(343jfd) is performed for a time of about 1 hour to about 10 hours orabout 2 hours to about 5 hours. In some embodiments, reacting carbontetrachloride in a liquid phase with 3,3,3-trifluoropropene in thepresence of an organophosphorus compound and a catalyst comprising ametal to produce CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) is performed for a time ofabout 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours, 5 hours, 6 hours, 7 hours, 8hours, 9 hours, or about 10 hours.

Reacting carbon tetrachloride in a liquid phase with3,3,3-trifluoropropene in the presence of an organophosphorus compoundand a catalyst comprising a metal to produce CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) canbe performed at a temperature of about 90° C. to about 130° C., about100° C. to about 120° C., or about 105° C. to about 115° C. for a timeof about 1 hour to about 10 hours or about 2 hours to about 5 hours. Insome embodiments, reacting carbon tetrachloride in a liquid phase with3,3,3-trifluoropropene in the presence of an organophosphorus compoundand a catalyst comprising a metal to produce CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) isperformed at temperature of about 105° C. to about 115° C. for a time ofabout 2 hours to about 5 hours. In some embodiments, reacting carbontetrachloride in a liquid phase with 3,3,3-trifluoropropene in thepresence of an organophosphorus compound and a catalyst comprising ametal to produce CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) is performed at temperature ofabout 110° C. for a time of about 3 hours.

In some embodiments, the CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) is isolated prior tostep (b). In some embodiments, CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) is isolated witha purity of greater than about 90%, 92%, 94%, 96%, or greater than about98%. In some embodiments, the purity is determined by chromatography. Insome embodiments, the purity is determined by gas chromatography (GC)analysis.

In some embodiments, about 95% or greater of the 3,3,3-trifluoropropeneis converted to CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd). For example, about 95%, 96%,97%, 98%, 99%, or 100% of the 3,3,3-trifluoropropene is converted toCF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd). In some embodiments, CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) isproduced with a selectivity of about 80 mol % to about 100 mol %, orabout 85 mol % to about 95 mol %, or about 87 mol % to about 90 mol %,with respect to other components of the mixture.

Step (b)—Production of CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf)

In step (b), CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) is treated with hydrogen fluoride(HF) in the presence of a catalyst to produce2-chloro-1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃; 346mdf). ReactingCF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) with HF is carried out in a liquid phase.

In some embodiments, the catalyst of step (b) is a metal halide. In someembodiments, the metal halide is SbF₅, SbCl₅, SbCl₃, SnCl₄, TaCl₅,TiCl₄, NbCl₅, MoCl₆, WCl₆, antimony (V) chlorofluorides, or combinationsthereof. In some embodiments, the catalyst is SbF₅, TaCl₅, antimony (V)chlorofluorides, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, thecatalyst is SbF₅. In some embodiments, the catalyst is TaCl₅. In someembodiments, the catalyst is antimony (V) chlorofluorides.

In some embodiments, the catalyst of step (b) comprises between about0.1% and about 20% by weight of the reaction mixture composition of step(b). For example, about 1% to about 15%, or about 5% to about 10%, orabout 10% to about 15% by weight of the composition. In someembodiments, the catalyst comprises about 8% to about 10% or about 12%to about 15% by weight of the reaction mixture composition of step (b).

In some embodiments, the CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) can be present in thereaction mixture composition of step (b) in an amount of about 20% toabout 50% by weight of the composition. For example, about 25% to about45%, about 30% to about 40%, or about 32% to about 35% by weight of thereaction mixture composition of step (b).

In some embodiments, the HF can be present in the reaction mixturecomposition of step (b) in an amount of about 40% to about 70% by weightof the composition. For example, about 45% to about 65%, about 50% toabout 60%, or about 52% to about 56% by weight of the reaction mixturecomposition of step (b).

In some embodiments, the reactants of step (b) can be added together atthe same time. In some embodiments, the reactants of step (b) can beadded together sequentially in any order. In some embodiments, thereactants of step (b) are added sequentially in the following order: (1)catalyst; (2) HF; (3) CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd).

In some embodiments, after addition of the catalyst, the reactionmixture composition of step (b) is cooled to a temperature of about 0°C. to about 20° C., such as about 0° C., 5° C., 10° C., 15° C., or about20° C. In some embodiments, after addition of the catalyst, the reactionmixture composition of step (b) is cooled to a temperature of about 0°C. to about 20° C. prior to addition of HF.

In some embodiments, after addition of HF, the reaction mixturecomposition of step (b) is heated to a temperature of about 90° C. toabout 120° C., or about 100° C. to about 110° C., such as about 90° C.,95° C., 100° C., 105° C., 110° C., 115° C., or about 20° C. In someembodiments, the heating is performed for a time of about 30 minutes toabout 5 hours or about 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 3 hours, 4 hours, orabout 5 hours. In some embodiments, the reaction mixture composition ofstep (b) is heated to a temperature of about 90° C. to about 120° C., orabout 100° C. to about 110° C. for a time of about 30 minutes to about 5hours. In some embodiments, after addition of HF, the reaction mixturecomposition of step (b) is heated to a temperature of about 90° C. toabout 120° C. or about 100° C. to about 110° C. for a time of about 30minutes to about 5 hours prior to addition of CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd).

In some embodiments, after addition of HF, the reaction mixturecomposition of step (b) is cooled to a temperature of about 0° C. toabout 20° C., such as about 0° C., 5° C., 10° C., 15° C., or about 20°C. In some embodiments, after addition of HF, the reaction mixturecomposition of step (b) is cooled to a temperature of about 0° C. toabout 20° C. prior to addition of CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd).

In some embodiments, after addition of HF, the reaction mixturecomposition of step (b) is heated to a temperature of about 90° C. toabout 120° C. or about 100° C. to about 110° C. for a time of about 30minutes to about 5 hours, followed by cooling to a temperature of about0° C. to about 20° C. prior to addition of CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd).

In some embodiments, after addition of CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd), thereaction mixture composition of step (b) is heated to a temperature ofabout 50° C. to about 150° C., about 75° C. to about 130° C., or about100° C. to about 115° C. In some embodiments, after addition ofCF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd), the reaction mixture composition of step (b) isheated to a temperature of about 50° C., 55° C., 60° C., 65° C., 70° C.,75° C., 80° C., 85° C., 90° C., 95° C., 100° C., 105° C., 110° C., 115°C., 120° C., 125° C., 130° C., 135° C., 140° C., 145° C., or about 150°C. In some embodiments, after addition of CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd), thereaction mixture composition of step (b) is heated for a time of about 5hours to about 30 hours or about 15 hours to about 25 hours. In someembodiments, after addition of CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd), the reactionmixture composition of step (b) is heated for a time of about 5 hours,10 hours, 15 hours, 20 hours, 24 hours, or about 30 hours. In someembodiments, after addition of CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd), the reactionmixture composition of step (b) is heated to a temperature of about 50°C. to about 150° C., about 75° C. to about 130° C., or about 100° C. toabout 115° C. for a time of about 5 hours to about 30 hours or about 15hours to about 25 hours.

In some embodiments, the CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf) produced in the liquidphase reaction between CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) and HF in the presence ofa catalyst is isolated prior to step (c). In some embodiments,CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf) is isolated with a purity of greater than about90 mol %, 91 mol %, 92 mol %, 93 mol %, 94 mol %, 95 mol %, 96 mol %, 97mol %, 98 mol %, or greater than about 99 mol %. In some embodiments,the purity is determined by chromatography. In some embodiments, thepurity is determined by gas chromatography (GC) analysis.

In some embodiments, about 95% or greater of the CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd)is converted to CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf) For example, about 95%, 96%, 97%,98%, 99%, or 100% of the CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ (343jfd) is converted toCF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf).

In some embodiments, in the liquid phase reaction between CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃(343jfd) and HF in the presence of a catalyst, the CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃(346mdf) is produced in a yield of greater than about 90%, 91%, 92%,93%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%, 98%, or 99%.

Step (c)—Production of E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz)

In step (c), CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf) is treated with an effective amountof a base to form a mixture comprising the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz).Reacting CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf) with an effective amount of a base toform a mixture comprising the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) is carried outin a liquid phase.

In some embodiments, the base of step (c) is an inorganic base. In someembodiments, the base of step (c) is lithium hydroxide, lithium oxide,sodium hydroxide, sodium oxide, potassium hydroxide, potassium oxide,rubidium hydroxide, rubidium oxide, cesium hydroxide, cesium oxide,calcium hydroxide, calcium oxide, strontium hydroxide, strontium oxide,barium hydroxide, and barium oxide. In some embodiments, the base ispotassium hydroxide. In some embodiments, the base is sodium hydroxide.

In some embodiments, the base of step (c) is in an aqueous solution. Insome embodiments, the concentration of base in the aqueous solution isabout 1 M to about 12 M, or about 4 M to about 12 M, or about 5 M toabout 10 M. In some embodiments, the concentration of base in theaqueous solution is about 5 M or about 10 M.

In some embodiments, the CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf) can be present in thereaction mixture composition of step (c) in an amount of about 20% toabout 60% by weight of the composition. For example, about 25% to about55%, about 30% to about 50%, or about 35% to about 45% by weight of thereaction mixture composition of step (c).

In some embodiments, step (c) is performed in the presence of a phasetransfer catalyst. In some embodiments, the phase transfer catalyst is aquaternary ammonium salt, a heterocyclic ammonium salt, an organicphosphonium salt, or a nonionic compound. In some embodiments, the phasetransfer catalyst is benzyltrimethylammonium chloride,benzyltriethylammonium chloride, methyltricaprylammonium chloride,methyltributylammonium chloride, methyltrioctylammonium chloride,dimethyldiphenylphosphonium iodide, methyltriphenoxyphosphonium iodide,tetrabutylphosphonium bromide, tetrabutylphosphonium chloride,hexadecyltributylphosphonium bromide, or DL-α-tocopherolmethoxypolyethylene glycol succinate. In some embodiments, the phasetransfer catalyst is methyltrioctylammonium chloride. An exemplarymethyltrioctylammonium chloride phase transfer catalyst that iscommercially available is Aliquat® 336 (Sigma Aldrich, St. Louis, Mo.).

In some embodiments, the phase transfer catalyst can be present in thereaction mixture composition of step (c) in an amount of about 0.01% toabout 5% by weight of the composition. For example, about 0.1% to about2.5%, about 0.5% to about 1.5%, or about 0.9% to about 1.3% by weight ofthe reaction mixture composition of step (c).

In some embodiments, reacting CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf) with an effectiveamount of a base to form a mixture comprising E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz)is performed at a temperature of about 50° C. to about 100° C., about60° C. to about 90° C., or about 60° C. to about 80° C. In someembodiments, reacting CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf) with an effective amount ofa base to form a mixture comprising the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) isperformed at a temperature of about 50° C., 55° C., 60° C., 65° C., 70°C., 75° C., 80° C., 85° C., 90° C., 95° C., or about 100° C.

In some embodiments, reacting CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf) with an effectiveamount of a base to form a mixture comprising E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz)is performed for a time of about 1 hour to about 10 hours or about 2hours to about 5 hours. In some embodiments, reacting CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃(346mdf) with an effective amount of a base to form a mixture comprisingE-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) is performed for a time of about 1 hour, 2hours, 3 hours, 4 hours, 5 hours, 6 hours, 7 hours, 8 hours, 9 hours, orabout 10 hours.

Reacting CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf) with an effective amount of a base toform a mixture comprising E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) can be performed ata temperature of about 50° C. to about 100° C., about 60° C. to about90° C., or about 60° C. to about 80° C. for a time of about 1 hour toabout 10 hours or about 2 hours to about 5 hours. In some embodiments,reacting CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf) with an effective amount of a base toform a mixture comprising E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) is performed attemperature of about 60° C. to about 80° C. for a time of about 1 hourto about 3 hours. In some embodiments, reacting CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf)with an effective amount of a base to form a mixture comprisingE-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) is performed at temperature of about 70° C.for a time of about 2 hours.

In some embodiments, reacting CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf) with an effectiveamount of a base to form a mixture comprising E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz)also produces one or more of hexafluoroisobutylene (1336mt),1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (356mff),(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (1335lzz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃.

In some embodiments, E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) is substantially isolatedfrom the mixture. In some embodiments, E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) isformed with a yield of greater than about 90%, 92%, 94%, 95%, 96%, 97%,98%, or 99%. In some embodiments, the yield of E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz)is greater than 95%

In some embodiments, E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) is produced with aselectivity of greater than about 95 mol %, 96 mol %, 97 mol %, 98 mol%, or 99 mol % with respect to other components of the reaction mixture.In some embodiments, E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) is produced with aselectivity of about 99 mol % or greater with respect to othercomponents of the reaction mixture.

Compositions

Also provided herein are compositions comprising E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃(E-1336mzz). In some embodiments, the compositions compriseE-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) and one or more additional compounds. In someembodiments, the composition comprises E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) and oneor more additional components selected from hexafluoroisobutylene(1336mt), 1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (356mff),(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (1335lzz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises greater than about 90 mol%, 91 mol %, 92 mol %, 93 mol %, 94 mol %, 95 mol %, 96 mol %, 97 mol %,98 mol %, or greater than about 99 mol % E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz). Insome embodiments, the composition comprises greater than about 99 mol %E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz).

Also provided herein are compositions prepared according to the processdescribed herein. In some embodiments, the compositions prepared by theprocess described herein comprise E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz). In someembodiments, the compositions prepared by the process described hereincomprise E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) and one or more additional compounds.In some embodiments, the composition prepared by the process describedherein comprises E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) and one or more additionalcomponents selected from hexafluoroisobutylene (1336mt),1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (356mff),(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (1335lzz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃.

In some embodiments, the composition prepared by the process describedherein comprises greater than about 90 mol %, 91 mol %, 92 mol %, 93 mol%, 94 mol %, 95 mol %, 96 mol %, 97 mol %, 98 mol %, or greater thanabout 99 mol % E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz). In some embodiments, thecomposition prepared by the process described herein comprises greaterthan about 99 mol % E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz).

EXAMPLES

The present disclosure is further defined in the following Examples. Itshould be understood that these Examples, while indicating preferredembodiments, are given by way of illustration only. From the abovediscussion and these Examples, one skilled in the art can ascertain thepreferred features, and without departing from the spirit and scopethereof, can make various changes and modifications to adapt it tovarious uses and conditions.

Materials

Iron powder, carbon tetrachloride, Aliquat® 336 and sodium hydroxidewere available from Sigma Aldrich, St. Louis, Mo. Hydrogen fluoride,SbCl₅ and 3,3,3-trifluoropropene were purchased from Synquest Labs, Inc.

Example 1: Preparation of 343jfd

3,3,3-trifluoropropene (66 g, 0.68 mol) was added to a mixture of carbontetrachloride (158 g, 1.0 mol), Fe powder (1.12 g, 0.02 mol) andtributylphosphate (2.66, 0.01 mol) in a 400 mL Hastelloy Reactor. Thereactor was heated to 110° C. for 3 hours. The mixture (217 g) wastransferred to a container and analyzed by GC (100%3,3,3-trifluoropropene conversion, 88% selectivity to 343jfd). The samereaction was repeated twice and all three batches of the material werecombined. The subsequent fractionation provided 299 g of 98% pureCCl₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (343jfd). b.p. 92-94° C./140 torr. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, 400MHz) δ: 4.52 (¹H, q-d-d, J¹=J²=6.9 Hz, J³=1.8 Hz), 3.44 (¹H, d-d,J¹=16.0 Hz, J²=1.9 Hz), 3.26 (¹H, d-d, J¹=16.0 Hz, J²=7.6 Hz). ¹⁹F NMR(CDCl₃, 376 MHz) δ: −74.85 (3F, d, J=6.9 Hz). MS (EI): 213 (M+-Cl).

Example 2: Preparation of 346mdf

SbF₅ Catalyst

A 240 mL Hastelloy C vessel was charged with SbF₅ and cooled to 20° C.with dry ice/acetone. HF was added and the vessel was cooled andevacuated 3 times. CCl₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (343jfd) was added and the vessel waspurged with N₂ three times. The reaction vessel was then heated to thedesired temperature and shaken for 20 hours. 50 g ice water was added toquench the reaction. The product distribution was analyzed by GC and isshown in Table 1.

TaCl₅ Catalyst

TaCl₅ (10.5 g) was added into a 210 mL Hastelloy C reactor, followed byHF addition (49 g). The reaction mixture was heated to 100° C. for 1hour and then cooled to 0° C. CCl₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (343jfd) was added and thereaction was heated back to 100° C. for 20 hours. 50 g ice water wasadded to quench the reaction. The product distribution was analyzed byGC and is shown in Table 1.

TABLE 1 Product distribution 1 2 3 4 Reactants 343jfd 30 g 30 g 30 g 29g  (0.12 mol)  (0.12 mol)  (0.12 mol)  (0.12 mol) HF 48 g 48 g 48 g 49 g (2.4 mol)  (2.4 mol)  (2.4 mol)  (2.4 mol) Catalyst SbF₅ - SbF₅ -SbF₅ - TaCl₅ - 8.0 g 8.0 g 8.0 g 12.5 g (0.037 mol) (0.037 mol) (0.037mol) (0.035 mol) Products E-1336mzz 1.6 0.2 2.1 4.3 (%) 346mdf (%) 96.596.7 93.8 93.3 356mff 0.2 0.1 0.2 N/D 1326mxz 0.1 0.2 0.1 N/D 1336mt (%)0.01 0.01 0.01 0.01 345lfd 0.7 1.8 2.0 N/D Unknown (%) 0.9 1 1.8 2.4Temperature 50 75 100 130 (° C.) Conversion 100 100 100 100 (%)

CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ (346mdf): b.p. 48-49° C. ¹H NMR (CDCl₃, 400 MHz) δ: 4.36(¹H, q-d-d, J¹=J²=6.9 Hz, J³=1.8 Hz), 2.90-2.80 (¹H, m), 2.72-2.61 (¹H,m). ¹⁹F NMR (CDCl₃, 376 MHz) δ: −64.84-−64.93 (3F, s), −76.17-−76.25(3F, s). MS (EI): 200 (M+).

Example 3: Preparation of E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz)

An aqueous solution of NaOH (6 mL, 0.06 mol) was added to 346mdf (10 g,0.05 mol) and water (6.8 mL) at room temperature (RT) in the presence of0.27 g of methyltrioctylammonium chloride (Aliquat® 336). The reactiontemperature was raised to 70° C. after the addition, and gaschromatography was used to monitor the reaction. After 2 hours, 7.2 g ofproduct E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) was collected in a dry ice trap(E-1336mzz selectivity 99.4%, yield: 95.4%).

Example 4: Preparation of E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃(E-1336mzz)

An aqueous solution of KOH (6 mL, 0.06 mol) was added to 346mdf (10 g,0.05 mol) and water (6.8 mL) at room temperature (RT). The reactiontemperature was raised to 70° C. after the addition, and gaschromatography was used to monitor the reaction. After 2 hours, 7.6 g ofproduct E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) was collected in a dry ice trap(E-1336mzz selectivity 99.5%, yield: 96%).

The product composition is shown in Table 2, below, and contains greaterthan 99% E-1336mzz.

TABLE 2 Product composition Products E-1336mzz (E—CF₃CH═CHCF₃) Z-1336mzz(Z—CF₃CH═CHCF₃) 1336mt (CF₃(CF₃)C═CH₂) 356mff (CF₃CH₂CH₂CF₃) 1335lzz(CF₂ClCH═CHCF₃)

Comparative Example: Preparation of E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃(E-1336mzz)

An aqueous solution of NaOH (6 mL, 0.06 mol) was added to 346mdf (10 g,0.05 mol) and water (6.8 mL) at room temperature (RT). The reactiontemperature was raised to 70° C. after the addition, and gaschromatography was used to monitor the reaction. After 2 hours, 0.1 g ofproduct E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ (E-1336mzz) was collected in a dry ice trap(yield: <1%).

OTHER EMBODIMENTS

1. In some embodiments, the present application provides a process forpreparing E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, comprising:

treating CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ with an effective amount of a base to form amixture comprising the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃,

wherein the process is a liquid phase process.

2. In some embodiments, the present application provides a process forpreparing E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, comprising:

treating CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ with an effective amount of a base to form amixture comprising the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ and one or more ofhexafluoroisobutylene (1336mt), 1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (356mff),(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (13351zz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃,

wherein the process is a liquid phase process.

3. The process of embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the base is selected fromthe group consisting of lithium hydroxide, lithium oxide, sodiumhydroxide, sodium oxide, potassium hydroxide, potassium oxide, rubidiumhydroxide, rubidium oxide, cesium hydroxide, cesium oxide, calciumhydroxide, calcium oxide, strontium hydroxide, strontium oxide, bariumhydroxide, and barium oxide.4. The process of embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the base is potassiumhydroxide.5. The process of embodiment 1 or 2, wherein the base is sodiumhydroxide.6. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 5, wherein the base is inan aqueous solution.7. The process of embodiment 6, wherein the concentration of base in theaqueous solution is from about 4 M to about 12 M.8. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 7, wherein the process isperformed in the presence of a phase transfer catalyst.9. The process of embodiment 8, wherein the phase transfer catalyst isselected from the group consisting of a quaternary ammonium salt, aheterocyclic ammonium salt, an organic phosphonium salt, and a nonioniccompound.10. The process of embodiment 8 or 9, wherein the phase transfercatalyst is selected from the group consisting ofbenzyltrimethylammonium chloride, benzyltriethylammonium chloride,methyltricaprylammonium chloride, methyltributylammonium chloride,methyltrioctylammonium chloride, dimethyldiphenylphosphonium iodide,methyltriphenoxyphosphonium iodide, tetrabutylphosphonium bromide,tetrabutylphosphonium chloride, hexadecyltributylphosphonium bromide,and DL-α-tocopherol methoxypolyethylene glycol succinate.11. The process of embodiment 8 or 9, wherein the phase transfercatalyst is methyltrioctylammonium chloride.12. The process of embodiment 8 or 9, wherein the base is sodiumhydroxide and the phase transfer catalyst is methyltrioctylammoniumchloride.13. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 12, wherein the mixturefurther comprises one or more of hexafluoroisobutylene (1336mt),1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (356mff),(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (1335lzz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃.14. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein theE-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ is produced in a yield of about 95% or greater.15. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein theE-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ is produced with a selectivity of about 99 mol % orgreater with respect to other components of the mixture.16. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein theE-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ is substantially isolated from the mixture.17. The process of any one of embodiments 1 to 13, wherein theCF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ is prepared according to a second process comprisingcontacting CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ with HF in the presence of a catalyst, whereinthe second process is a liquid phase process.18. The process of embodiment 17, wherein the catalyst is a metalhalide.19. The process of embodiment 18, wherein the metal halide is selectedfrom the group consisting of SbF₅, SbCl₅, SbCl₃, SnCl₄, TaCl₅, TiCl₄,NbCl₅, MoCl₆, WCl₆, antimony (V) chlorofluorides, and combinationsthereof.20. The process of embodiment 18, wherein the metal halide is SbF₅.21. The process of embodiment 18, wherein the metal halide is TaCl₅.22. The process of embodiment 18, wherein the metal halide is antimony(V) chlorofluorides.23. The process of any one of embodiments 17 to 22, wherein the secondprocess is performed at a temperature of from about 50° C. to about 100°C.24. The process of any one of embodiments 17 to 23, wherein theCF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ is produced in a yield of about 93% or greater.25. The process of any one of embodiments 17 to 24, wherein theCF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ is produced in a yield of about 95% or greater.26. The process of any one of embodiments 17 to 25, wherein theCF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ is prepared by a third process comprising contactingcarbon tetrachloride with 3,3,3-trifluoropropene in the presence of anorganophosphorus compound and a catalyst comprising a metal, wherein thethird process is a liquid phase process.27. The process of embodiment 26, wherein the organophosphorus compoundis selected from the group consisting of a phosphate ester, a phosphateamide, a phosphonic acid, a phosphonic ester, a phosphinic acid, aphosphinic ester, a phosphine oxide, a phosphine imide, a phosphoniumsalt, a phosphorene, a phosphite, a phosphonate, a phosphinite, and aphosphine.28. The process of embodiment 26 or 27, wherein the organophosphoruscompound is selected from the group consisting of a phosphate, adiphosphate, a triphosphate, and a trialkylphosphate.29. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 28, wherein theorganophosphorus compound is tributylphosphate.30. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 29, wherein the metal ofthe catalyst of the third process is selected from the group consistingof Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Mo, Cr, and Mn.31. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 29, wherein the metal ofthe catalyst of the third process is Fe.32. The process of any one of embodiments 26 to 29, wherein the thirdprocess takes place at a temperature of from about 100° C. to about 120°C.33. In some embodiments, the present application further provides aprocess for preparing E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, comprising:

(a) contacting carbon tetrachloride with 3,3,3-trifluoropropene in thepresence of an organophosphorus compound and a catalyst comprising ametal to produce CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃;

(b) contacting the CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ with HF in the presence of a catalystto produce CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃; and

(c) treating the CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ with an effective amount of a base toform a mixture comprising the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃,

wherein the process is a liquid phase process.

34. The process of embodiment 33, wherein step (c) is performed in thepresence of a phase transfer catalyst.

35. The process of embodiment 33, wherein the mixture of step (c)further comprises one or more of hexafluoroisobutylene (1336mt),1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (356mff),(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (1335lzz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃.

36. In some embodiments, the present application further provides aprocess for preparing E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, comprising:

(a) contacting carbon tetrachloride with 3,3,3-trifluoropropene in thepresence of an organophosphorus compound and a catalyst comprising ametal to produce CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃;

(b) contacting the CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ with HF in the presence of a catalystto produce CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃; and

(c) treating the CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ with an effective amount of a base in thepresence of a phase transfer catalyst to form a mixture comprising theE-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, wherein the process is a liquid phase process.

37. The process of embodiment 36, wherein the base of step (c) is sodiumhydroxide.

38. The process of embodiment 36 or 37, wherein the mixture of step (c)further comprises one or more of hexafluoroisobutylene (1336mt),1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (356mff),(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (1335lzz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃.

39. The process of any one of embodiments 36 to 38, wherein theE-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ is substantially isolated from the mixture.

40. In some embodiments, the present application further provides acomposition comprising:

E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃; and

one or more additional compounds selected from the group consisting ofhexafluoroisobutylene (1336mt), 1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (356mff),(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (1335lzz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃,

wherein the composition comprises greater than about 99 mol %E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃.

41. In some embodiments, the present application further provides acomposition prepared according to any of the processes provided herein,the composition comprising:

E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃; and

one or more additional compounds selected from the group consisting ofhexafluoroisobutylene (1336mt), 1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane (356mff),(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene (1335lzz), andZ—CF₃CH═CHCF₃,

wherein the composition comprises greater than about 99 mol %E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃.

It is to be understood that while the invention has been described inconjunction with the detailed description thereof, the foregoingdescription is intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of theinvention, which is defined by the scope of the appended claims. Otheraspects, advantages, and modifications are within the scope of thefollowing claims. It should be appreciated by those persons havingordinary skill in the art(s) to which the present invention relates thatany of the features described herein in respect of any particular aspectand/or embodiment of the present invention can be combined with one ormore of any of the other features of any other aspects and/orembodiments of the present invention described herein, withmodifications as appropriate to ensure compatibility of thecombinations. Such combinations are considered to be part of the presentinvention contemplated by this disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A process for preparing E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃,comprising: treating CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ with an effective amount of a base inthe presence of a phase transfer catalyst and a solvent componentconsisting of water, to form a mixture comprising the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃,wherein the process is a liquid phase process and the base is sodiumhydroxide.
 2. The process of claim 1, wherein the mixture furthercomprises one or more of hexafluoroisobutylene,1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane,(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene, and Z—CF₃CH═CHCF₃.
 3. Theprocess of claim 1, wherein the base is in an aqueous solution of fromabout 4 M to about 12 M.
 4. The process of claim 1, wherein the phasetransfer catalyst is selected from the group consisting of a quaternaryammonium salt, a heterocyclic ammonium salt, an organic phosphoniumsalt, and a nonionic compound.
 5. The process of claim 4, wherein thephase transfer catalyst is selected from the group consisting ofbenzyltrimethylammonium chloride, benzyltriethylammonium chloride,methyltricaprylammonium chloride, methyltributylammonium chloride,methyltrioctylammonium chloride, dimethyldiphenylphosphonium iodide,methyltriphenoxyphosphonium iodide, tetrabutylphosphonium bromide,tetrabutylphosphonium chloride, hexadecyltributylphosphonium bromide,and DL-α-tocopherol methoxypolyethylene glycol succinate.
 6. The processof claim 5, wherein the phase transfer catalyst ismethyltrioctylammonium chloride.
 7. The process of claim 4, wherein thebase is sodium hydroxide and the phase transfer catalyst ismethyltrioctylammonium chloride.
 8. The process of claim 1, wherein theE-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ is substantially isolated from the mixture.
 9. The processof claim 1, wherein the CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ is prepared according to a secondprocess comprising contacting CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ with HF in the presence ofa catalyst, wherein the second process is a liquid phase process. 10.The process of claim 9, wherein the catalyst is a metal halide selectedfrom the group consisting of SbF₅, SbCl₅, SbCl₃, SnCl₄, TaCl₅, TiCl₄,NbCl₅, MoCl₆, WC₁₆, antimony (V) chlorofluorides, and combinationsthereof.
 11. The process of claim 10, wherein the metal halide isselected from the group consisting of SbF₅, TaCl₅, and antimony (V)chlorofluorides.
 12. The process of claim 9, wherein the second processis performed at a temperature of from about 50° C. to about 100° C. 13.The process of claim 9, wherein the CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ is prepared by athird process comprising contacting carbon tetrachloride with3,3,3-trifluoropropene in the presence of an organophosphorus compoundand a catalyst comprising a metal, wherein the third process is a liquidphase process.
 14. The process of claim 13, wherein the organophosphoruscompound is selected from the group consisting of a phosphate ester, aphosphate amide, a phosphonic acid, a phosphonic ester, a phosphinicacid, a phosphinic ester, a phosphine oxide, a phosphine imide, aphosphonium salt, a phosphorene, a phosphite, a phosphonate, aphosphinite, and a phosphine.
 15. The process of claim 14, wherein theorganophosphorus compound is tributylphosphate.
 16. The process of claim13, wherein the metal of the catalyst is selected from the groupconsisting of Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Mo, Cr, and Mn.
 17. The process of claim16, wherein the metal is Fe.
 18. The process of claim 13, wherein thethird process takes place at a temperature of from about 100° C. toabout 120° C.
 19. A process for preparing E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, comprising: (a)contacting carbon tetrachloride with 3,3,3-trifluoropropene in thepresence of an organophosphorus compound and a catalyst comprising ametal to produce CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃; (b) contacting the CF₃CHClCH₂CCl₃ withHF in the presence of a catalyst to produce CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃; and (c)treating the CF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ with an effective amount of a base in thepresence of a phase transfer catalyst and a solvent component consistingof water, to form a mixture comprising the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, wherein theprocess is a liquid phase process, and the base of step (c) is sodiumhydroxide.
 20. The process of claim 19, wherein the mixture of step (c)further comprises one or more of hexafluoroisobutylene,1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane,(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene, and Z—CF₃CH═CHCF₃.
 21. Theprocess of claim 19, wherein the E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃ is substantially isolatedfrom the mixture.
 22. A composition, consisting of comprising:E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃, hexafluoroisobutylene, 1,1,1,4,4,4-hexafluorobutane,(E)-1-chloro-1,1,4,4,4-pentafluorobut-2-ene, and Z—CF₃CH═CHCF₃.
 23. Thecomposition of claim 22, wherein the composition consists of greaterthan about 99 mol % E-CF₃CH═CHCF₃.
 24. The composition of claim 22,which is prepared according to a process comprising treatingCF₃CH₂CHClCF₃ with an effective amount of a base in the presence of aphase transfer catalyst and a solvent component consisting of water,wherein the process is a liquid phase process and the base is sodiumhydroxide.